Celebrations of Life
A funeral ceremony is, for most, an uncommon experience; the journey we go through in coming to terms with death is far from being a well trodden path. My role as celebrant is to provide guidance through the beginning of that journey, by putting together an individual and unique ceremony that reflects the true character of the loved one who has died.
The easiest way to do this is for you to tell me all about them: I’ll come to your home at a time that suits you (and any family and friends you wish to be there), and just be present as you take the time to focus on them, submersing yourselves in thoughts about them, their qualities and their legacy. You may wish to include photos or memorabilia as you share memories. We’ll also touch on their beliefs and philosophies, and those of the people closest to them, to ensure these are acknowledged where appropriate.
This conversation often sparks ideas for the specifics of the ceremony: themes, music and sensory elements to make the occasion very personal to your loved one; offering a starting point as to what thoughts and emotions you might like to convey through readings and poems (often, these are decided upon in the days following our meeting).
My diploma provided a broad, in-depth understanding of the implications of losing a loved one, and the elements of a funeral ceremony necessary to satisfy our basic need to acknowledge that loss.
My experience as an actor and facilitator has not only given me the confidence to speak and sing in public, but also to convey to people that they are in safe hands; and the ability to quickly grasp the nature and personality of someone based on a limited amount of information. Coupled with being a nice bloke who’s easy to talk to, I can be relied upon to help guide you through this challenging time.
As an Independent Celebrant, I can incorporate as much (or as little) religion and/or spiritual element as you deem appropriate, and can help create a ceremony tailored to the individual, unique and specific to them; memorable for those they leave behind and a significant part of coming to terms with their loss.